What Is UberASSIST?
As Uber expands, it has begun offering services which serve the disabled and provide extra assistance to mobility-impaired passengers.
UberASSIST — Offering Extra Assistance to Passengers
Uber’s goal as a transportation company is to provide service options to anyone in need of a ride — which is why, in recent years, they have developed specific services for a range of new customer bases — including passengers who are physically disabled, or in need of extra help when traveling by car. UberASSIST fills a gap in the wider rideshare industry — it is a reasonably low-cost transportation option that offers additional assistance to both seniors and individuals with disabilities.
In order to meet the specific needs of customers, ASSIST drivers are special trained by the Open Doors Organization.
Not only do ASSIST drivers assist riders into their vehicles, but they are able to accommodate folding wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers.
UberASSIST is currently available in:
CALIFORNIA
Bakersfield
Fresno
Inland Empire
Los Angeles
Orange County
Palm Springs
San Diego
San Francisco
HAWAII
Honolulu
LOUISIANA
New Orleans
Drive for UberASSIST
Login to your regular Uber account and apply.
If accepted, a two hour in-person training sessions will take place. The training sessions will provide prospective drivers with the skills and knowledge required — and detail the process of working with the Open Doors Organization. UberASSIST riders generally require services during off-peak hours — which sometimes suits the schedules of drivers working specialized schedules.
Fares
When it comes to a fares, UberASSIST drivers have an added incentive — Uber takes away less of a fee from every UberASSIST trip, charging only 15% (although this varies, depending on the city.)
If you would like to review the UberASSIST education guide, it’s available here.
Vehicle Types and Special Assistance
UberASSIST was designed with the rider in mind. Many individuals with disabilities feel transportation companies do not properly assist them, or address their needs. From visual and physical impairments to individuals suffering from dementia, UberASSIST is available to those who need additional help getting around. Drivers do not need to invest in a special vehicle to work for UberASSIST — regular UberX vehicles are accepted.
However, there sometimes are special circumstances (including high four-wheel drive vehicles and lower-than-average cars, which do not function as viable UberASSIST vehicles).
As long as you can store a folding wheelchair or scooter, a standard compact car will be sufficient.
If you are a driver who already owns a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, this could provide you with an option to make some extra, flexible income.
Free Training
UberASSIST’s training process is free, meaning you can expand your customer base at no additional cost to yourself. As a top-rated driver, it never hurt to have this additional training. If you find that it’s not worth your time, no problem — you’re always free to continue as a regular rideshare driver.
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